Rochester Hills has Toys, Play Spots, a Museum, Great Food and More for Kids

As one resident put it, this community has "the perfect mix of town and country." Situated on about 32 square miles in Oakland County, it has a great mix of shopping and restaurants – coupled with plenty of parks and spots to unwind and spend a little family time, whether you're into go-kart action, catching a first-run movie, taking in a little live theater or finding a new book or toy. Discover what this city has in store!

Soft-serve, self-serve cultured frozen yogurt: Sate your sweet tooth for as little as 29 calories an ounce with oodles of flavors you can top with 50-plus garnishes, from fresh fruits to cereals and candy. The shop also has a location in Royal Oak.

Whether you're up for some family fun or interested in getting into a league or booking that next birthday party, this 32-lane destination is packed with state-of-the-art equipment. Lots of bumper lanes just for kids and glow bowling, too.

This gem gets mad props for its Neapolitan style pizza, crafted in wood-burning ovens that crank out crisp, bubbly masterpieces in 90 seconds. Created by hometown guy David Dedvukaj, this joint also has salads, hero sandwiches and apps, plus a beer and wine list for mom and dad.

Have your kids ever been to a bona fide used bookstore? This family-owned shop, here since 1983, is packed with everything from young adult tomes to mystery. Nab one for a good bargain – even cheaper if you bring in a book to trade.

An outdoor music concert hot spot, this venue opened in 1964 (it was originally intended to be the summer home of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra). It boasts four concession stands and several kids' shows throughout the summer months.

Skip the tip and get a tray of chef-created food to go at this gourmet market. It also has a reputation of "being able to obtain any 'hard-to-get' item" – and plenty on-site goodies that'll please foodie families. Has a Birmingham locale, too.

Costs: $15 rally race (10 minutes); other rates range $10-$60, and family discounts are available

Hankering for a little indoor kart racing? This is the place to give it a spin. Opt for a high-speed Rally Kart, or get the whole family in on the fun with Naskarts and Double Seat karts, prime for riders under age 14.

Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday (note: they close early if all cupcakes are sold!)

The only thing better than the cupcake names here – "Paint It Black," "Yellow Submarine" and "The White Stripes," to name just a few – are the sweet ingredients, like fresh fruit, premium chocolate and Madagascar bourbon vanilla. Talk about killer licks.

Visit the state's only velodrome – or raised bike track – to watch riders speed by, or try out the track yourself. If you're not into biking, there are several nature trails and other recreation offerings at the park.

Boasting historical roots that trace back to 1863, this mill churns out premium cider that features a six-apple blend by mid-October. Take a tour in September and October, visiting a petting zoo mid-May through fall. Some attractions, like the Fudge Shoppe, are open as late as November.

Ask about kids yoga "playshops," which feature a project, new poses, uplifting music and making mala bead bracelets with "the traditional 27 beads," perfect for ages 5-12. Pre-register and pay. Lots for parents, too, including basic yoga, power vinyasa, weight-loss yoga and more.